It is important to realize that, at one time or another, anxiety is a part of everyone's life. Anxiety can help to motivate you or protect you from danger. However, it can also interfere with day-to-day living. It is when anxiety overrides your ability to be productive that psychological support and assistance may be required and beneficial.

Anxiety is comprised of physical feelings, negative thoughts, worry and avoidance behaviors. With anxiety, there is a very clear connection between the mind and the body. Yet anxiety disorders are very treatable (see www.adaa.org). Research from the National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov) states that cognitive-behavioral therapy (with or without doctor-prescribed medication) is the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders. (Click on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for more information).

Below is a checklist of symptoms associated with anxiety. Many of you will recognize at least some of these symptoms as ones you've experienced. Nearly everyone has experienced some of these symptoms at one time or another.

Go down the checklist and check the boxes of the symptoms that you are currently experiencing (within the last month). If these symptoms have been persisting for more than one month and are frequently intense in severity, you should know that it is possible to learn how to control and prevent them from occurring.

Unrealistic or excessive worry  Unrealistic fears concerning objects or situations  Exaggerated startle responses  Flashbacks of past traumatic events  Sleep disturbance  Ritualistic behaviors  Shakiness  Trembling  Muscle aches  Cold clammy hands  Sweating  Jitteriness  Dizziness  Fatigue  Muscle tension  Dry mouth  Racing or pounding heart  Upset stomach  Numbness/tingling  Lump in throat  Shortness of breath

Just remember that even though you may be suffering from some of these symptoms, the important thing to note is how severe are they, and how much do they interfere with day-to-day living. Do the symptoms lead to avoidance of certain situations?

Feelings of anxiety are often coupled with feelings of depression, worthlessness and guilt. Remember, ANXIETY DISORDERS ARE VERY TREATABLE.

Please read our page about Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, or visit the site of the Anxiety Disorders Association of America for more information. For answers to your questions, or to inquire about scheduling an appointment, please e-mail the Anxiety and Stress Management Center.

Call the Anxiety and Stress Management Center at 215-497-0464.